Tabby Persians have the identical markings of Tabby Shorthairs, differing only in the length of the long, silky hair. Their markings include distinctive lines or pencil marks on the head, swirled around the eyes and the cheeks. Three prominent dark stripes extend the length of the back and two cross the chest. The sides bear vertical bars and swirls, and on the thighs they become horizontal. The legs have dark bracelets. The tail is ringed.

All Tabby Persians conform in basic body structure- that is, they are rather massively built but well proportioned. The legs are short and thick, the tail is short and fully furred or brush-like (as wide as the body when brushed and spread out). The head is wide and round, the nose pug, and the small ears are wide set, almost hidden in fur.

Principal color varieties are listed here. Others have been developed, but all are difficult to maintain in show-quality standards because of a strong tendency to revert to features- such as a long tail or larger and pointed ears- tracing to their shorthaired heritage. Kittens do not achieve their full coloration until several months after birth. Tabby Persians make good pets, but their owners must be prepared to give them the additional care that is demanded by their long coats and to tolerate a degree of hair resulting from normal shedding.

Blue Tabby Persian is pale bluish with fawn overtones. Even the lips and chin are bluish. The tabby markings are a much deeper blue. The eyes are orange to copper.

Brown Tabby Persian is an old variety not commonly seen. The background color is a tawny sable and the markings are an intense black. The large, round eyes must be copper or deep orange in show cats, but green eyes are common in the variety. In some the chin and the tip of the tail are white, but this is not allowed in show cats.

Cameo Tabby has a pale cream background color and the labby markings are beige or reddish. The eyes are coppery gold.

Red Tabby has a rich red basic coat color with even darker red tabby markings. The large, round, copper eyes are set in a broad head and the nose is blunt. White commonly appears on the chest, chin, and tail and disqualifies a cat for shows.